Henderson County Commissioners approved the largest capital project in the county’s history in May 2024 – the expansion and renovation of the Henderson County Judicial Center.
This landmark initiative reflects the County’s commitment to building a facility that will serve generations to come, while reflecting the values of stability and permanence of the local government.
Designed to meet the needs of a growing population and evolving judicial technologies, the project encompasses a 90,000 SF courthouse adjacent to the repurposed courthouse (completed in 1995), and a 60,000 SF series of additions to the existing detention facility. Together, the judicial complex will span nearly 300,000 square feet.
The design team drew inspiration from the natural beauty of western North Carolina. Elements of the region’s landscape – its mountains, waterways, and apple orchards – are reflected in the building’s massing, materials and detailing. The precast exterior’s board-and-batten textures subtly reference the traditional barns dotting the rural landscape. Vertical metal fins on the west-facing façade offer solar shading while evoking the orderly rows of local orchards. Inside, a terrazzo lobby floor features a ripple motif inspired by nearby rivers and streams.
Construction is currently underway on Phase 1, focused on the detention facility. Phase 2 is set to begin shortly thereafter, with full project completion expected in 2028.
